Among the constant stream of letters about world-shaking issues to the Journal-World’s Public Forum, a gentle piece recently appeared to remind us that life for everyone would be better if we regularly practiced and recognized civility, respect and kindness.

The letter didn’t deal with politics, terrorism, war, health issues or traffic problems. But it was as noteworthy as the finest oration on politics and other “weightier” topics. The piece simply reminded us that warm thoughts and kind words can have a wonderful impact on a society that is so desperate for more good behavior.

A mother, Allison Ekren, took her young son and a friend to the local skate park, apprehensive that an anticipated profusion of older youngsters might have its drawbacks. What she encountered was a group of older boys who went out of their way to make the children feel welcome and secure. The older boys patiently helped the neophytes hone their skills and stay safe.

The mother had doubts about the merits of thanking the “teachers” fearing “they wouldn’t think it was ‘cool’ for me to talk to them” but she found the recipients delightfully receptive.

Allison Ekren’s summary of the experience is well worth repeating, to get us all considering what small refinements in life can accomplish.

She wrote: “I realized two important things from this experience. The first is that we should teach kids how important it is to be nice to others. The second thing, more important than the first, is that they should know that people appreciate their kind behavior.

“Please, next time you see someone being polite, nice or doing a good job, just take a moment and say thank you. It will motivate them to continue, and you will feel good about making a difference.”

Imagine how much could be accomplished on a local, national and world level if more of us took the time to say a simple “thank you” and then learned how to graciously accept such gestures.

Don’t ever be shy about expressing gratitude and responding with a “you’re welcome” when someone else makes you feel better. Generally, everyone benefits from such thoughtfulness.